CARLSBAD
Carlsbad approved a 12-month pilot hotel-motel voucher program last week as part of an array of new and expanded services intended to reduce homelessness by 50 percent in the city over the next five years.
The voucher program is expected to cost up to $3.2 million, though reimbursement may be available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for expenses incurred through September. The city hopes to have it “up and running” by June, said Deputy City Manager Gary Barberio.
“We know this program is of great interest to the community, Barberio said. “Lots of concerns and questions have been raised.”
Two of the homeless people often found at Magee Park said Friday morning they would be glad to get motel rooms. Located along Carlsbad Boulevard, just south of the Army and Navy Academy, the park has public restrooms, water fountains and shady nooks that make it a regular stop for the unsheltered.